April 20, 2001 – University of the Virgin Islands students and others in the market for jobs shopped around, dropped off resumes and did some on-the-spot interviewing with representatives of potential employers at UVI's 23rd annual Career and Health Fair Thursday on the St. Thomas campus.
Those attending the fair, held at the new Sport and Fitness Center, could check out the opportunities offered by more than 20 businesses, not-for-profit organizations and local and federal government agencies, according to a UVI release.
Throughout the day, students toting resumes — in print or electronic form — trickled in, moving from table to table to explore career opportunities and fill out applications at those of interest. As one appreciative UVI freshman put it, "Instead of going to the jobs, they are coming to you."
Henry Smith, vice provost of research and public services, noted in the release that UVI has been criticized "for being removed from the community." Through public services such as the job fair, he said, "the university has been reaching out and partnering" with local entities.
Waldo Santiago, special agent with the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, traveled from Puerto Rico to recruit potential agents. "Every time we're invited, we come," he said. The DEA is making a big push to recruit minorities, he said. To be considered, candidates must have at least a bachelor's degree and a 2.95 grade-point average.
The Marriott Frenchman's Reef and Renaissance Grand Beach resorts and Coral World were recruiting hospitality sector personnel. Renaissance human resources assistant Natasha Hodge-Gumbs said she received "a few promising applications" and thought participating was worth while. A V.I. National Guard recruiter said the organization received many leads but had hoped for better attendance.
Also among those represented were the American Red Cross, Banco Popular, Bank of Nova Scotia, Cardow Jewelers, Cingular Wireless, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Innovative Communication, the U.S. Army and Navy, and the V.I. Personnel Division.
The "Health Fair" component of the event offered free blood pressure testing, breast examination, HIV testing and other screenings.
